Sports supplements (also known as ergogenic aids) are used to enhance performance. This may include vitamins, minerals, amino acids – or an extraction or concentration of these.

Sports supplements can include: protein, carbohydrate, recovery, testosterone boosters, creatine, fat burners, isotonics, pre- and post- workouts, nitric oxide, and weight gainers. They are designed to increase energy and improve performance before, during and after a workout, and speed up the recovery time after training.

Individuals who take sports supplements use them alongside a balanced diet with exercise, as well as providing the body with extra nutrients. They\u2019re designed to help control weight, assist muscle mass gain, and improve general health and the immune system. Sports supplements should not replace a healthy balanced diet.

Carbohydrates work by releasing insulin into the body after consumption, which promotes muscle growth.

Creatine is an amino acid made up with arginine, glycine and methionine. It helps in gaining muscle and extra strength to work harder during a workout. It also prevents a breakdown in muscle while exercising.

Fat burners are generally categorised as thermogenic and non-thermogenic, stimulant based or non-stimulant based.

There are many all-in-one products, which provide the body with several nutrients in one serving, which is really convenient for saving space in a gym bag, requires less time to prepare, and is a great option for those who cannot swallow tablets or capsules.

Recovery is essential after a workout. Products containing protein, carbohydrates, creatine and BCAA\u2019s providing an excellent foundation for recovery supplements. Protein contributes to the growth and maintenance of muscles.